Apparatus for projecting an object

Abstract

Apparatus for projecting an object such as a ball is described. The apparatus comprises a support for the object to be projected, an impeller assembly configured to transfer energy to the object to project it away from the apparatus; and an actuating mechanism operable by a user interaction with the apparatus. The impeller assembly may be driven mechanically by the actuating mechanism by transfer of energy input by the user interaction. The apparatus may be used for an animal and in particular a dog. The described apparatus removes the need for a further power supply and so avoids unnecessary energy consumption and provides advantages in relation to cost, reliability, and longevity. Embodiments of the invention are modular in nature which greatly assists in training the animal to use the apparatus.

Description

[0001]The present invention relates to an apparatus for projecting or launching an object, such as a ball, and in particular to a mechanical device for projecting a ball. Embodiments of the invention have particular application to exercising animals such as dogs.[0002]Many people enjoy interacting with animals and pets for companionship, relaxation and exercise. Dogs can make particularly agreeable pets due to their ability to be trained and their general playfulness. Many breeds of dog are natural retrievers, and games of chase or fetch, which involve a dog owner throwing an object such as a stick or ball to be chased and retrieved by the animal, are a popular way of playing with and exercising a dog.[0003]However, the game requires repeated throwing by the dog owner, which can become tiring for the owner before the animal is sufficiently exercised. Enjoyment of the game may also be limited to the ability of the dog owner to throw the object a reasonable distance, which may be diff...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0006]It is amongst the objects of the invention to provide an apparatus for projecting an object which addresses one or more drawbacks of previously proposed apparatus. Another object of the invention is to provide an improved method of exercising or training an animal.

[0009]By providing an apparatus which is configured to transfer energy from the user interaction to drive the impeller and project the ball, the need for a further power supply or energy supply is avoided. Furthermore, use of electronic or electrical components may be avoided. The apparatus may be entirely mechanically operated. This avoids unnecessary energy consumption and provides advantages in relation to cost, reliability, and longevity. In addition, the apparatus has improved durability and robustness when compared with devices proposed in the prior art. This facilitates use and storage outside, for example in a garden, park or field.

[0020]The apparatus may be configured such that movement of the rack causes a linear movement of the pinion from the disengaged position to the engaged position. An initial movement of the rack from its equilibrium position may move the pinion into engagement. Subsequent movement of the rack causes rotation of the pinion in its engaged position, thereby driving the impeller assembly.

[0023]Preferably, the apparatus is configured such that objects located in the receptacle and / or support are at least partially hidden from visibility. In particular, the objects may be shielded from the vision of an animal in use. This prevents or reduces the tendency for the animal to pick up objects direct from the support and / or the receptacle.

Problems solved by technology

However, the game requires repeated throwing by the dog owner, which can become tiring for the owner before the animal is sufficiently exercised.

Enjoyment of the game may also be limited to the ability of the dog owner to throw the object a reasonable distance, which may be difficult for young, disabled, or elderly owners.

Furthermore, some dog owners may be reluctant to handle an object which has accumulated dirt, water, or saliva from previous throwing and retrieval.

However, all such devices require repeated interaction of the owner with the dog, which may become tiresome or inconvenient in some circumstances.

In addition, some dog owners may not be able to operate the devices effectively or safely.

Catapult devices rely on highly elastic components designed to move at high velocity, and which may be hazardous in use.

However, this device relies on a power source and electronic components for its operation, and is suitable only for indoor use.

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